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Running Mate #2
Office Mate
Thorn
From the first time I played army as a kid, the military has been my life. As an Airborne Major, I’d led my men through two tours in Afghanistan. But when my father was elected president, I became an even greater target for the enemy—a prize for someone to take out. To ensure not only the safety of myself, but of my men, I got stripped of my cammies, shoved into an Armani suit, and placed into a management position at my father’s company. After years of trekking through the desert with an assault rifle, I was way out of my area of expertise, which my transition coordinator was more than happy to let me know on a daily, if not hourly basis. The brunette bombshell would be the death of me in more ways than one, especially since I hadn’t been with a woman since my last deployment. She’s turning out to be one of the greatest foes I’ve ever done battle with.
Isabel
In the backwoods Georgia town I was born in, you either married right out of high school or got the hell out of town. I chose the second and never looked back. After graduating top in my class, I started working for The Callahan Corporation. Fast forward five years and I was about to become the youngest female manager in the history of my department. And then all the blood, sweat, and tears I’d put into my career were for nothing when the boss’s billionaire son was handed my position on a silver platter. Not only that, I was expected to help transition him into the job that was supposed to be mine. Sure, he’s easy on the eyes with his chiseled good-looks and impossibly built physique, but I’m not going to let that distract me. I hope soldier boy is good at military strategy because sabotage is the name of the game I’ll be playing.
From the first time I played army as a kid, the military has been my life. As an Airborne Major, I’d led my men through two tours in Afghanistan. But when my father was elected president, I became an even greater target for the enemy—a prize for someone to take out. To ensure not only the safety of myself, but of my men, I got stripped of my cammies, shoved into an Armani suit, and placed into a management position at my father’s company. After years of trekking through the desert with an assault rifle, I was way out of my area of expertise, which my transition coordinator was more than happy to let me know on a daily, if not hourly basis. The brunette bombshell would be the death of me in more ways than one, especially since I hadn’t been with a woman since my last deployment. She’s turning out to be one of the greatest foes I’ve ever done battle with.
Isabel
In the backwoods Georgia town I was born in, you either married right out of high school or got the hell out of town. I chose the second and never looked back. After graduating top in my class, I started working for The Callahan Corporation. Fast forward five years and I was about to become the youngest female manager in the history of my department. And then all the blood, sweat, and tears I’d put into my career were for nothing when the boss’s billionaire son was handed my position on a silver platter. Not only that, I was expected to help transition him into the job that was supposed to be mine. Sure, he’s easy on the eyes with his chiseled good-looks and impossibly built physique, but I’m not going to let that distract me. I hope soldier boy is good at military strategy because sabotage is the name of the game I’ll be playing.
253 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 8, 2018
About the author
Katie Ashley
56 books8,949 followersKatie Ashley is a New York Times, USA Today, and Amazon Top Three Best-Selling author of both Indie and Traditionally published books. She's written rockers, bikers, manwhores with hearts of gold, New Adult, and Young Adult. She lives outside of Atlanta, Georgia with her daughter, Olivia, her rescue mutts, Belle and Elsa, and her two cats, Mama Kitty and Luna. She has a slight obsession with The Golden Girls, Shakespeare, Harry Potter, and Star Wars.
With a BA in English, a BS in Secondary English Education, and a Masters in Adolescent English Education, she spent eleven years teaching both middle and high school English, as well as a few adjunct college English classes. As of January 2013, she became a full-time writer.
Although she is a life-long Georgia peach, she loves traveling the country and world meeting readers. Most days, you can find her being a hermit, styling leggings, and binging on Netflix whenever her toddler daughter isn't monopolizing the TV with Paw Patrol or Frozen.
CONNECT WITH KATIE
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➜ FACEBOOK: facebook.com/katie.ashleyromance
➜ FACEBOOK READER GROUP (ASHLEY'S ANGELS): facebook.com/groups/ashleyangels
➜ WEBSITE: www.katieashleybooks.com
➜INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/katieashleyluv
➜ TWITTER: twitter.com/katieashleyluv
➜ PINTEREST: pinterest.com/katieashleyluv
With a BA in English, a BS in Secondary English Education, and a Masters in Adolescent English Education, she spent eleven years teaching both middle and high school English, as well as a few adjunct college English classes. As of January 2013, she became a full-time writer.
Although she is a life-long Georgia peach, she loves traveling the country and world meeting readers. Most days, you can find her being a hermit, styling leggings, and binging on Netflix whenever her toddler daughter isn't monopolizing the TV with Paw Patrol or Frozen.
CONNECT WITH KATIE
➜ NEWSLETTER: http://bit.ly/2ljVosh
➜ FACEBOOK: facebook.com/katie.ashleyromance
➜ FACEBOOK READER GROUP (ASHLEY'S ANGELS): facebook.com/groups/ashleyangels
➜ WEBSITE: www.katieashleybooks.com
➜INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/katieashleyluv
➜ TWITTER: twitter.com/katieashleyluv
➜ PINTEREST: pinterest.com/katieashleyluv
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 227 reviews
July 9, 2018
OfficeMate is a sweet and cute romance. But while it started off strong, it lost me halfway through. When the H and h started talking it was unending details after details. The beginning was awesome, I loved it and then I got bored and started skimming.
In fact I Lost Interest.
Thorn , the H who is not a Manwhore. I loved it. He is celibate for 9 months and that’s before meeting the h. So yep, he is awesome. But I didn’t understand why he tried to purposely act like an asshole towards Isabel to hide his attraction for her. That didn’t help him anyway.
About Isabel, she is full on career woman. It was funny in the beginning when she tried to sabotage Thorn by deleting his work or adding laxatives in his coffee. Lol. She obviously is guilty later and confesses to him. But seeing the situation where she was to get the position which Thorn was given in silver platter, I don’t blame her.
All is good then. I must say little too good. Weeks go by and still they don’t act on their feelings even after confessing their attraction. They do spend their time together. It’s kind of slow burn. They don’t even kiss each other till later part in the book. Initially when they do, I was bored and lost already.
Still, I'm glad I read this. It was fun and I enjoyed it.
In fact I Lost Interest.
Thorn , the H who is not a Manwhore. I loved it. He is celibate for 9 months and that’s before meeting the h. So yep, he is awesome. But I didn’t understand why he tried to purposely act like an asshole towards Isabel to hide his attraction for her. That didn’t help him anyway.
About Isabel, she is full on career woman. It was funny in the beginning when she tried to sabotage Thorn by deleting his work or adding laxatives in his coffee. Lol. She obviously is guilty later and confesses to him. But seeing the situation where she was to get the position which Thorn was given in silver platter, I don’t blame her.
All is good then. I must say little too good. Weeks go by and still they don’t act on their feelings even after confessing their attraction. They do spend their time together. It’s kind of slow burn. They don’t even kiss each other till later part in the book. Initially when they do, I was bored and lost already.
Still, I'm glad I read this. It was fun and I enjoyed it.
June 15, 2019
Tengo que admitir que inicie Office Mate principalmente porque su predecesor fue una lectura que disfrute mas de lo que imaginaba y esperaba que esta continuacion siguiera siendo tan divertida y fresca, pero aunque la historia de Thorn y Isabel me parecio entretenida, no alcanzo a ser tan encantadora como Running Mate.
Me falto que tuviera mas sustancia, por decirlo de alguna forma, todo es demasiado basico y superficial, ademas la autora no profundiza en las partes importantes ni tampoco en la personalidad de los protagonistas, por lo que al terminar la novela tienes la sensacion de que no llegaste a conocer en absoluto a los personajes.
Lo unico bueno de este libro es que es muy ligero y sin apenas drama, tambien que algunos de los primeros capitulos fueron muy muy divertidos, me hicieron reir a carcajadas, por lo demas, no es una historia demasiado memorable, solo espero que la siguiente parte recupere parte de la esencia que encontre en Running Mate.
2.75 Estrellas!
Shelved as 'not-interested'
July 9, 2018I didn’t finish the 1st one RUNNING MATE. It seems this one follows the same line. Nothing happens until later in the book. Besides, I don’t think it’s cute when someone starts to prank or sabotage a coworker because you think they’re being unfair to you. It’s immature, unethical and very unprofessional. It just shows you’re not cut for a promotion. Period.
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July 7, 2018
*ARC provided by the author for an honest review*
Thorn is just gorgeous luv a man in a suit!
Isabel is a hard working woman. She comes from a little town in Georgia. She alway had big plans to get to where she is now in a big corporation. It hasn't been easy but it has been worth all the blood sweat and tears. Her parents and sister have been behind her all the way and support her no matter what. Isabel has been working so hard and it's finally goin to pay off. Will she thought it was finally goin to pay off. Until Thorn Callihan came banging into her life. And let me tell you he came into her life with a bang.
Thorn Callihan is a great guy. He has alway done what he wants and he knew the Army was what he wanted to do. Know after leaving the Army a corporate job was not him. But his dad really wanted him to be a part of the family business. And let's be honest you can't say no to the President of the US. His dad as alway been there for Thorn but after he got into a incident Thorn had to step down. He wasn't really dealing with it well but he would do what was needed from him. Life was goin easy until he got a feel of Isabel.
I luvd these to characters together. There was so much sexual tension from the start between them. I really luvd how Isabel was a calm collected woman but Thorn brought out this crazy side to her and it was so funny. She was doin things that she would never do. Isabel was a hard worker didn't let a man get the best of her. But Thorn push her and she didn't know if she liked it or hated it. They were so good together they brought out the best in each other.
I enjoyed this book and would recommend it. The story was good and flowed well I did find that the ending was a bit quick I was left wanting more. I just felt th at the drama started and then it was over so quick. But overall I did enjoy it. I luvd the characters and it was great to get a lil more of Barrett even if it was only a lil. I would luv more of Ty. He is a great character and I luv how loyal he is to the Callihan men. I need more of Ty. I did find parts of this book so funny and it did remind me of another I read and luvd. This book was a great read I always enjoy this authors books.
Thorn is just gorgeous luv a man in a suit!
Isabel is a hard working woman. She comes from a little town in Georgia. She alway had big plans to get to where she is now in a big corporation. It hasn't been easy but it has been worth all the blood sweat and tears. Her parents and sister have been behind her all the way and support her no matter what. Isabel has been working so hard and it's finally goin to pay off. Will she thought it was finally goin to pay off. Until Thorn Callihan came banging into her life. And let me tell you he came into her life with a bang.
Thorn Callihan is a great guy. He has alway done what he wants and he knew the Army was what he wanted to do. Know after leaving the Army a corporate job was not him. But his dad really wanted him to be a part of the family business. And let's be honest you can't say no to the President of the US. His dad as alway been there for Thorn but after he got into a incident Thorn had to step down. He wasn't really dealing with it well but he would do what was needed from him. Life was goin easy until he got a feel of Isabel.
I luvd these to characters together. There was so much sexual tension from the start between them. I really luvd how Isabel was a calm collected woman but Thorn brought out this crazy side to her and it was so funny. She was doin things that she would never do. Isabel was a hard worker didn't let a man get the best of her. But Thorn push her and she didn't know if she liked it or hated it. They were so good together they brought out the best in each other.
I enjoyed this book and would recommend it. The story was good and flowed well I did find that the ending was a bit quick I was left wanting more. I just felt th at the drama started and then it was over so quick. But overall I did enjoy it. I luvd the characters and it was great to get a lil more of Barrett even if it was only a lil. I would luv more of Ty. He is a great character and I luv how loyal he is to the Callihan men. I need more of Ty. I did find parts of this book so funny and it did remind me of another I read and luvd. This book was a great read I always enjoy this authors books.
July 13, 2018
4 Stars!! Office Mate by Katie Ashley is a sexy, funny, fantastic story. I loved Thorn and Isabel. Their story is a perfect summer read.
Thorn is your next book boyfriend. He is gorgeous, smart, sexy, and a hero veteran. Isabel is beautiful, smart, sexy and driven. Together they are smoking. Their banter is snarky, witty and sexy.
Author Katie Ashley gives us a slow burn. This isn’t insta-love. The relationship builds and develops through the story. Thorn and Isabel have chemistry and palpable attraction. But they become friends first, after some interesting, laugh out loud, antics at work. They also have some hot AF moments once things progress to the next level. I love how they navigate their relationship journey. They have some obstacles to get through to make it work.
Office Mate is a great summer romance read. I love the characters and the story. It was awesome to see Barrett and Addison, too. Definitely recommend you put on your TBR!!
Thorn is your next book boyfriend. He is gorgeous, smart, sexy, and a hero veteran. Isabel is beautiful, smart, sexy and driven. Together they are smoking. Their banter is snarky, witty and sexy.
Author Katie Ashley gives us a slow burn. This isn’t insta-love. The relationship builds and develops through the story. Thorn and Isabel have chemistry and palpable attraction. But they become friends first, after some interesting, laugh out loud, antics at work. They also have some hot AF moments once things progress to the next level. I love how they navigate their relationship journey. They have some obstacles to get through to make it work.
Office Mate is a great summer romance read. I love the characters and the story. It was awesome to see Barrett and Addison, too. Definitely recommend you put on your TBR!!
July 8, 2018
***ARC Provided by the Author and InkSlingerPR***
I enjoyed this book. And I didn't. Really, in equal parts. Let me sum up,and then I will get into it more...I like enemies to lovers, possibly even more than friends to lovers. I like things set in the political arena, even on the periphery. What I don't like are books where there is an element of revenge or pranks played that could actually cause harm. That's a big no for me.
As this is an enemies to lovers, it takes a while for the romance between Thorn and Isabel to make it's appearance. Once it does, I really enjoyed this title. Well, once they realize that maybe they can be friends, and that there is an attraction that goes both directions, even though both have been reluctant to act on it.
That said, I struggled up to this point. I get it, Thorn took the promotion Isabel wanted, and was all but promised. And, he got the position because it's a family company, not because he put in the work to get himself there...so there is some anger, some resentment and some sabotage. Which, honestly, isn't my favorite subplot. When the sabotage becomes cruel, I sort of check out. And, in this case, it wasn't warranted. Thorn didn't want to be in the position at the company. He didn't ask for it. In fact, he's a soldier with a life plan of staying in the military. Until he is forced to leave...not due to injury, but because his father is elected President of the United States. So, yeah, he took Isabel's coveted position, but there is (at least in my opinion) no credit really given for that by her, until the end. So, for me, I struggled with liking her, as, well, her actions come across as someone who is behaving like an immature bitch who didn't get her way. So, yeah, I struggled with liking her.
Thron, however, I liked a lot...and I trust his judgment of Isabel. He sees something there, so I was able to give her the benefit of the doubt and remain invested in the story.
I did enjoy this overall, and I do recommend this title.
I enjoyed this book. And I didn't. Really, in equal parts. Let me sum up,and then I will get into it more...I like enemies to lovers, possibly even more than friends to lovers. I like things set in the political arena, even on the periphery. What I don't like are books where there is an element of revenge or pranks played that could actually cause harm. That's a big no for me.
As this is an enemies to lovers, it takes a while for the romance between Thorn and Isabel to make it's appearance. Once it does, I really enjoyed this title. Well, once they realize that maybe they can be friends, and that there is an attraction that goes both directions, even though both have been reluctant to act on it.
That said, I struggled up to this point. I get it, Thorn took the promotion Isabel wanted, and was all but promised. And, he got the position because it's a family company, not because he put in the work to get himself there...so there is some anger, some resentment and some sabotage. Which, honestly, isn't my favorite subplot. When the sabotage becomes cruel, I sort of check out. And, in this case, it wasn't warranted. Thorn didn't want to be in the position at the company. He didn't ask for it. In fact, he's a soldier with a life plan of staying in the military. Until he is forced to leave...not due to injury, but because his father is elected President of the United States. So, yeah, he took Isabel's coveted position, but there is (at least in my opinion) no credit really given for that by her, until the end. So, for me, I struggled with liking her, as, well, her actions come across as someone who is behaving like an immature bitch who didn't get her way. So, yeah, I struggled with liking her.
Thron, however, I liked a lot...and I trust his judgment of Isabel. He sees something there, so I was able to give her the benefit of the doubt and remain invested in the story.
I did enjoy this overall, and I do recommend this title.
July 9, 2018
How do you feel when you think your getting a promotion in the company you’ve worked for seven years and they give to one of the owner’s son? Not only his son, but the President of the United States son. A distinguished military hero. Well, Isabel Flannery is pissed when she meets Thorn Callahan on this most horrifying day. Not only is she angry, but there’s some embarrassing moments that happen that just couldn’t make this day get any worse. Filled with humor and romance, Ms. Ashley just writes a feel-good love story with some pretty swoon-worthy incidents. Loved Thorn and Isabel! And, the supporting characters were pretty awesome too! Next up, Ty and Caroline’s story...
July 17, 2018
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
Office Mate by Katie Ashley was a sexy, slow burn romance that had all feels to keep any reader entertained. If you are a fan of the enemies to lovers romance like myself then this book might be for you. With heated chemistry and sexual tension, Ashley woos her readers to be drawn to her characters as they go back and forth with banter as Isabel tries not to help Thorn with his new assigned position in work since this position was meant for her not the President’s son who swooped in and took the job that was meant for her. So what happens when heated tension leads to blurred lines and both characters can’t help but fall for each other? So if you are looking for a hot swoony romance that had the slow burn feel then I suggest you go read this book.
Katie Ashley
Office Mate by Katie Ashley was a sexy, slow burn romance that had all feels to keep any reader entertained. If you are a fan of the enemies to lovers romance like myself then this book might be for you. With heated chemistry and sexual tension, Ashley woos her readers to be drawn to her characters as they go back and forth with banter as Isabel tries not to help Thorn with his new assigned position in work since this position was meant for her not the President’s son who swooped in and took the job that was meant for her. So what happens when heated tension leads to blurred lines and both characters can’t help but fall for each other? So if you are looking for a hot swoony romance that had the slow burn feel then I suggest you go read this book.
Katie Ashley
July 5, 2018
Katie Ashley mastered the slow burn romance with this book.
Isabel is a force to be reckon with in the business world. Coming from a small town without money has made her determined to show the world she can make it on her own.
Thorn is the President's son and a veteran. He doesn't want to be out of the military, but security reasons force him stateside. He is trying to acclimate himself to civilian life, but he is finding it harder than it seems.
Thorn is given a position at his dad's company. On his first day, he learns more about Isabel than he was bargaining for, but the most important fact is that he took her position. Will Thorn and Isabel learn to work together for the sake of the business, or will the tension rise until they bust?
Isabel's character was a perfectionist. She worked hard to get where she was in life and wasn't going to let anyone stand in her way. She was also a worrier. She was caring and focused a lot of her attention on helping her friends and family.
Thorn was an angry person going through the motions. He suffered from PTSD and was stuck with a secret security agent who watched his every move.
I loved this story. The back and forth, the tension, the secondary characters, the situations these two found themselves in were perfect for this enemies, to friends, to lovers romance. They had a fun friendship and it showed in their relationship. I also loved the other characters especially Barrett and Ty. They brought a lot of comedic relief to two characters who were very much rule followers. I'm going to need to go back and read Barrett's book and I really hope Ty gets his own book. He was such a mysterious character who seemed to know more than what he let on.
-An ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review.-
Isabel is a force to be reckon with in the business world. Coming from a small town without money has made her determined to show the world she can make it on her own.
Thorn is the President's son and a veteran. He doesn't want to be out of the military, but security reasons force him stateside. He is trying to acclimate himself to civilian life, but he is finding it harder than it seems.
Thorn is given a position at his dad's company. On his first day, he learns more about Isabel than he was bargaining for, but the most important fact is that he took her position. Will Thorn and Isabel learn to work together for the sake of the business, or will the tension rise until they bust?
Isabel's character was a perfectionist. She worked hard to get where she was in life and wasn't going to let anyone stand in her way. She was also a worrier. She was caring and focused a lot of her attention on helping her friends and family.
Thorn was an angry person going through the motions. He suffered from PTSD and was stuck with a secret security agent who watched his every move.
I loved this story. The back and forth, the tension, the secondary characters, the situations these two found themselves in were perfect for this enemies, to friends, to lovers romance. They had a fun friendship and it showed in their relationship. I also loved the other characters especially Barrett and Ty. They brought a lot of comedic relief to two characters who were very much rule followers. I'm going to need to go back and read Barrett's book and I really hope Ty gets his own book. He was such a mysterious character who seemed to know more than what he let on.
-An ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review.-
July 9, 2018
“Don’t you know how very manly your scars are? A warrior’s body is marred and mangled. It wears the wounds of battle. You have a warrior’s body, and it’s the sexiest fucking thing I’ve ever seen.”
Oh how I’ve missed Katie Ashley’s words! OFFICE MATE, her latest standalone contemporary romance stole my heart from page one. This sweet slow-burn of a romance had me on the edge of my seat, smiling and swooning until the very last page was turned. This has a very entertaining enemies-to-lovers feel to it, and that brought some angst and undeniable tension to the table. It was a pleasantly paced, easy to read, beautiful, sexy, and romantic page-turner. This author has a way a with words that had me falling head over heels for Thorn and Isabel. The chemistry was amazing, the tension was heart-pounding, and the love scenes were scorching HOT! If you are looking for your next GO-TO author for this genre, look no further than Katie Ashley! Her words will hypnotize you. Her characters will capture your heart, and her storytelling will have you swooning for days!
Oh how I’ve missed Katie Ashley’s words! OFFICE MATE, her latest standalone contemporary romance stole my heart from page one. This sweet slow-burn of a romance had me on the edge of my seat, smiling and swooning until the very last page was turned. This has a very entertaining enemies-to-lovers feel to it, and that brought some angst and undeniable tension to the table. It was a pleasantly paced, easy to read, beautiful, sexy, and romantic page-turner. This author has a way a with words that had me falling head over heels for Thorn and Isabel. The chemistry was amazing, the tension was heart-pounding, and the love scenes were scorching HOT! If you are looking for your next GO-TO author for this genre, look no further than Katie Ashley! Her words will hypnotize you. Her characters will capture your heart, and her storytelling will have you swooning for days!
July 11, 2018
Office Mate is a fun and sexy slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers romance with a charming and heartwarming story. Isabel and Thorn won me over from the moment they appear on the page and find themselves in an adversarial working relationship that is spiked with their intense, combustible attraction. They attempt to ignore the heat simmering beneath every entertaining, hostile exchange, but their push and pull eventually reaches its snapping point and ignites into a fiery and sweet union. Office Mate is a fantastic romantic comedy that will have you smiling, sighing and begging for more from Katie Ashley.
Recommendation appeared on USA Today’s Happy Ever After on July 10, 2018.
ARC provided, but this review was voluntarily and honestly written.
Recommendation appeared on USA Today’s Happy Ever After on July 10, 2018.
ARC provided, but this review was voluntarily and honestly written.
July 8, 2018
4.5+ stars
Isabel Flannery was so close to achieving her dream job. After working diligently and planning to meet all of her work goals, she was next-in-line to be promoted to VP of the Callahan Corporation. Her hard-working perfectionism and control freak attitude made her stand out in her fast-paced, challenging work environment.
And then he arrived...Thorn Callahan. The Callahan son forced to give up his career in the military for security reasons since his father is now President. What's a little nepotism? He is angry and resentful about his situation. And he was not expecting to get flack from the woman who is supposed to train him in his new job. An unexpected and awkward first impression does not help matters.
He turns off the charm and dons his a**hole armor to deflect his attraction and to avoid any workplace repercussions from that. And she is mad enough to want to play a bit dirty and maybe make him look bad in the process. Anything between them would be forbidden and fodder for gossip no matter how much sexual tension sparks between their angry tirades. And he has to watch out for his own reputation and he is used to following a code of honor. So things are about to get messy, complicated, ugly...maybe a bit out of control.
There's antagonism, attraction, hidden agendas, sabotage, and scheming. They do not want to want or need the other. They push, challenge, fuss, and fight. But as they start to let down their guards, a truce begins to form. And eventually even a friendship. And that sexual tension and attraction that just seems to keep growing. But he's still her boss and it's his family's company. Getting too friendly with the boss is not a good plan for a woman who thrives on succeeding in her career. Anything between them is still off limits and could have repercussions. And his family situation just puts them even more in the spotlight.
But when the lines keep getting blurred, where will that leave them? Is a chance at love worth the risks?
It brings back the characters from Running Mate : his brother Barrett and Addison, his parents, and his bodyguard, Ty. This is a slow-burn, enemies-to-friends-to-lovers forbidden romance with humor and feels. I really liked their banter whether they were fighting or having fun as friends or being romantic. They had great chemistry and rapport. I adored Thorn even when he was trying to be a jerk, but loved his vulnerability too. They were both strong, stubborn personalities, but also had good hearts and really needed someone to understand and see them. But there were also complications and challenges that made it a delicate situation. This one ran through many changes in their interpersonal dynamics so it kept me entertained and interested throughout.
I received this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
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Isabel Flannery was so close to achieving her dream job. After working diligently and planning to meet all of her work goals, she was next-in-line to be promoted to VP of the Callahan Corporation. Her hard-working perfectionism and control freak attitude made her stand out in her fast-paced, challenging work environment.
And then he arrived...Thorn Callahan. The Callahan son forced to give up his career in the military for security reasons since his father is now President. What's a little nepotism? He is angry and resentful about his situation. And he was not expecting to get flack from the woman who is supposed to train him in his new job. An unexpected and awkward first impression does not help matters.
He turns off the charm and dons his a**hole armor to deflect his attraction and to avoid any workplace repercussions from that. And she is mad enough to want to play a bit dirty and maybe make him look bad in the process. Anything between them would be forbidden and fodder for gossip no matter how much sexual tension sparks between their angry tirades. And he has to watch out for his own reputation and he is used to following a code of honor. So things are about to get messy, complicated, ugly...maybe a bit out of control.
There's antagonism, attraction, hidden agendas, sabotage, and scheming. They do not want to want or need the other. They push, challenge, fuss, and fight. But as they start to let down their guards, a truce begins to form. And eventually even a friendship. And that sexual tension and attraction that just seems to keep growing. But he's still her boss and it's his family's company. Getting too friendly with the boss is not a good plan for a woman who thrives on succeeding in her career. Anything between them is still off limits and could have repercussions. And his family situation just puts them even more in the spotlight.
But when the lines keep getting blurred, where will that leave them? Is a chance at love worth the risks?
It brings back the characters from Running Mate : his brother Barrett and Addison, his parents, and his bodyguard, Ty. This is a slow-burn, enemies-to-friends-to-lovers forbidden romance with humor and feels. I really liked their banter whether they were fighting or having fun as friends or being romantic. They had great chemistry and rapport. I adored Thorn even when he was trying to be a jerk, but loved his vulnerability too. They were both strong, stubborn personalities, but also had good hearts and really needed someone to understand and see them. But there were also complications and challenges that made it a delicate situation. This one ran through many changes in their interpersonal dynamics so it kept me entertained and interested throughout.
I received this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
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July 19, 2018
Really? Executive putting laxatives in someone's coffee?
I stopped reading at chapter 9 when the author thought it was a fantastic idea to write about an executive putting laxatives in her vice president's coffee because he got the job she wanted. Very difficult to believe the author thought this would be funny!!
I stopped reading at chapter 9 when the author thought it was a fantastic idea to write about an executive putting laxatives in her vice president's coffee because he got the job she wanted. Very difficult to believe the author thought this would be funny!!
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June 24, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/24/2019)! 🎁
July 12, 2018
Isabel Flannery worked hard for everything she has ever achieved. Growing up in a small town in a double wide trailer taught her how important it was to fight for what you wanted in life. Isabel studied hard, got good grades, and finally her MBA. She landed her dream job at The Callahan Corporation after interning for them seven years ago. Now, all of her dreams and hard work were about to be paid off. She was about to get the promotion she so rightly deserved, Vice President in investment banking at The Callahan Corporation. Nothing could get in her way of the most perfect day of her life.
Thorn Callahan wanted nothing more to be a soldier. Being in the army was his life. It is what defined him as a person. But, now that his father is President of the United States, his life in the army has come to a complete stop. Being the president’s son put a huge target on his back and in turn put his comrades in danger. He is now a civilian and about to enter the workforce in his father’s company, Callahan Corporation.
Much to Isabel’s surprise, Thorn snatched the Vice President position right out from under her after their disastrous meeting outside the office building. Isabel’s luck just went downhill all due to the sexy President’s son.
Could their chance encounter outside the office building be the best thing that happens to Isabel and Thorn? Or will rivalry get the best of them?
Office Mate is a slow burn enemies to friends to lovers office romance that really turns up the heat. You can see the attraction Isabel and Thorn have for one another, but Thorn never mixes business with pleasure. To hide his attraction, Thorn turns into a complete douche to Isabel. In turn, Isabel retaliates in the funniest of ways which actually winds up bringing them closer together. As they get to know one another, Isabel and Thorn establish a friendship of sorts which leads to real feelings getting involved. It was really nice to for a change to not see two characters in insta-love. When they were not trying to one up each other, you could see the respect they had for one another which made the romance all that more believable and real.
I really loved both Isabel and Thorn. They are such well thought out three dimensional characters and I felt like I really got to know the both of them equally. Isabel and Thorn are down to earth, loveable, and deserving of a happy ending. Isabel and Thorn are probably one of my favorite book couples I have read about and come to love.
Katie Ashley really knows how to draw you into a story right from the beginning. I found myself laughing at the hijinks both characters partook in. There are also a lot of serious moments in the story and the transition from funny to emotional was done flawlessly. Office Mate is a delightful story full of charm and character that will hook you from the first page and never let up right until the very end. I wholeheartedly enjoyed and highly recommend you indulge yourself in this story. It is well worth the read.
Thorn Callahan wanted nothing more to be a soldier. Being in the army was his life. It is what defined him as a person. But, now that his father is President of the United States, his life in the army has come to a complete stop. Being the president’s son put a huge target on his back and in turn put his comrades in danger. He is now a civilian and about to enter the workforce in his father’s company, Callahan Corporation.
Much to Isabel’s surprise, Thorn snatched the Vice President position right out from under her after their disastrous meeting outside the office building. Isabel’s luck just went downhill all due to the sexy President’s son.
Could their chance encounter outside the office building be the best thing that happens to Isabel and Thorn? Or will rivalry get the best of them?
Office Mate is a slow burn enemies to friends to lovers office romance that really turns up the heat. You can see the attraction Isabel and Thorn have for one another, but Thorn never mixes business with pleasure. To hide his attraction, Thorn turns into a complete douche to Isabel. In turn, Isabel retaliates in the funniest of ways which actually winds up bringing them closer together. As they get to know one another, Isabel and Thorn establish a friendship of sorts which leads to real feelings getting involved. It was really nice to for a change to not see two characters in insta-love. When they were not trying to one up each other, you could see the respect they had for one another which made the romance all that more believable and real.
I really loved both Isabel and Thorn. They are such well thought out three dimensional characters and I felt like I really got to know the both of them equally. Isabel and Thorn are down to earth, loveable, and deserving of a happy ending. Isabel and Thorn are probably one of my favorite book couples I have read about and come to love.
Katie Ashley really knows how to draw you into a story right from the beginning. I found myself laughing at the hijinks both characters partook in. There are also a lot of serious moments in the story and the transition from funny to emotional was done flawlessly. Office Mate is a delightful story full of charm and character that will hook you from the first page and never let up right until the very end. I wholeheartedly enjoyed and highly recommend you indulge yourself in this story. It is well worth the read.
August 1, 2018
** 3.5 / 4 stars **
Opening Line
It’s been awhile since I’ve read anything by Katie Ashley. My first read by her was The Proposition series and although she’s released a couple of books since I haven’t gotten around to reading them yet. However, when I came across Office Mate I knew it was one I just needed to read.
Office Mate was a funny and entertaining read. Enemy-to-lovers is one of my favourite tropes and the fact that this one included a little sabotaging at the beginning was an extra bonus. I really enjoyed Isabel’s character, she’s worked incredibly hard to get where she is and the day she’s suppose to receive her promotion to Vice President she finds out that not only did she not get the promotion but it’s getting handed over to someone else due to nepotism. I don’t blame her for being hurt, angry, and frustrated and the fact that she has to help him transition into the role? Well, that’s just a slap in the face in my books. It would be easy to dislike Thorn right away but thanks to dual POV we learn that Thorn didn’t want the job. Having been forced out of the military with his father being elected as the President of the United States his family decided the best thing would be to get him to join the family business.
I think my favourite thing about Office Mate was the fact that Thorn wasn’t your typical bad-boy or womanizer. Due to being in the military and focusing on leading his team he hasn’t had time for relationships or random hook ups. Also, I really liked how realistic his character was in terms of coming back from the military and dealing with PTSD.
Overall, Office Mate was an enjoyable read with a slow burn romance. If you enjoy a slow burn story then this one is for you. After Isabel and Thorn put aside their differences I expected things to move a little more swiftly but they didn’t, but I still enjoyed their romance!
While Office Mate is listed as being part of a series, there was a previous book called Running Mate that focuses on Thorn’s brother Barrett. Close to the beginning of Office Mate there’s a part when Thorn describes his brother and his past in the typical author summarizing a previous book fashion which made me go on the hunt to find it. However, each can be read as a standalone!
Opening Line
There are some days that are destined to change your life. Ones when you’re old and grey, you’ll look back on as the day when everything became different-the day when your ship finally came in.
It’s been awhile since I’ve read anything by Katie Ashley. My first read by her was The Proposition series and although she’s released a couple of books since I haven’t gotten around to reading them yet. However, when I came across Office Mate I knew it was one I just needed to read.
Office Mate was a funny and entertaining read. Enemy-to-lovers is one of my favourite tropes and the fact that this one included a little sabotaging at the beginning was an extra bonus. I really enjoyed Isabel’s character, she’s worked incredibly hard to get where she is and the day she’s suppose to receive her promotion to Vice President she finds out that not only did she not get the promotion but it’s getting handed over to someone else due to nepotism. I don’t blame her for being hurt, angry, and frustrated and the fact that she has to help him transition into the role? Well, that’s just a slap in the face in my books. It would be easy to dislike Thorn right away but thanks to dual POV we learn that Thorn didn’t want the job. Having been forced out of the military with his father being elected as the President of the United States his family decided the best thing would be to get him to join the family business.
I think my favourite thing about Office Mate was the fact that Thorn wasn’t your typical bad-boy or womanizer. Due to being in the military and focusing on leading his team he hasn’t had time for relationships or random hook ups. Also, I really liked how realistic his character was in terms of coming back from the military and dealing with PTSD.
Overall, Office Mate was an enjoyable read with a slow burn romance. If you enjoy a slow burn story then this one is for you. After Isabel and Thorn put aside their differences I expected things to move a little more swiftly but they didn’t, but I still enjoyed their romance!
While Office Mate is listed as being part of a series, there was a previous book called Running Mate that focuses on Thorn’s brother Barrett. Close to the beginning of Office Mate there’s a part when Thorn describes his brother and his past in the typical author summarizing a previous book fashion which made me go on the hunt to find it. However, each can be read as a standalone!
July 6, 2018
ARC Received for an honest review
I adored Barrett in Running Mate (and still do in this one), however I freaking LOVE Thorn in Office Mate.
Isabel and Thorn's story is one fueled by lust, hate and sooo much sexual tension you can cut it with a knife.
They don't meet in the best of circumstances, so along with all the UST there is so much resentment between them that at times you couldn't be sure if the would kiss or kill each other!
Isabel gets her revenge on Thorn in laugh out loud ways, and even as you know they are wrong, you can't help but fist pump when they happen.
It is wonderful journey as hate turns to friendship and who knows, maybe much much more.
It was great to get a little glimpse of Barrett and Addison and where they are at now.
Sweet, tender, funny and drama/angst free, Ms Ashley has given us a lovely story that I read in one afternoon.
I can't wait to see what she brings us next.
I adored Barrett in Running Mate (and still do in this one), however I freaking LOVE Thorn in Office Mate.
Isabel and Thorn's story is one fueled by lust, hate and sooo much sexual tension you can cut it with a knife.
They don't meet in the best of circumstances, so along with all the UST there is so much resentment between them that at times you couldn't be sure if the would kiss or kill each other!
Isabel gets her revenge on Thorn in laugh out loud ways, and even as you know they are wrong, you can't help but fist pump when they happen.
It is wonderful journey as hate turns to friendship and who knows, maybe much much more.
It was great to get a little glimpse of Barrett and Addison and where they are at now.
Sweet, tender, funny and drama/angst free, Ms Ashley has given us a lovely story that I read in one afternoon.
I can't wait to see what she brings us next.
July 10, 2018
It's been a while since I read a Katie Ashley book and I have to say I'm so glad that I picked this one up! I absolutely adored this storyline, a kind of enemies to lovers story.
Thorn was a strong hero. A war veteran returned to civilian life due to his fathers powerful position, forced to take a job in the family company till he can figure out a plan for his life. It's been a while since he's had the love of a woman, and even longer since he'd even been in a relationship with one. It just so happens that the first woman he has any real interaction with happens to be his new employee, and she's already punched him in the face!
Isabel is a strong heroine, that has a take no bull attitude! She's taken herself from her small Georgia upbringing to a high powered financial adviser at the company she's worked at since college. She's fully ready to take on the next chapter in her life, but little did she know that chapter that was yet to be written was the twist of a lifetime!
Katie does a great job working through the issues with these two! It was sweet, funny and charming and well one or two really heated moments that set the bed ablaze! I loved the banter between Thorn and Isabel, and the slow burn of their relationship. Sometimes the simmering is what's needed to make a book great and Katie nailed it with this one!
Thorn was a strong hero. A war veteran returned to civilian life due to his fathers powerful position, forced to take a job in the family company till he can figure out a plan for his life. It's been a while since he's had the love of a woman, and even longer since he'd even been in a relationship with one. It just so happens that the first woman he has any real interaction with happens to be his new employee, and she's already punched him in the face!
Isabel is a strong heroine, that has a take no bull attitude! She's taken herself from her small Georgia upbringing to a high powered financial adviser at the company she's worked at since college. She's fully ready to take on the next chapter in her life, but little did she know that chapter that was yet to be written was the twist of a lifetime!
Katie does a great job working through the issues with these two! It was sweet, funny and charming and well one or two really heated moments that set the bed ablaze! I loved the banter between Thorn and Isabel, and the slow burn of their relationship. Sometimes the simmering is what's needed to make a book great and Katie nailed it with this one!
July 4, 2018
The romantic tension is off the charts and such a wonderful slow burn! I loved it! Office Mate is well written and so worth the wait! If you don't fall for Thorn and Isabel like I did, I will be super surprised!
July 15, 2018
One of the BEST hate to love, friends to lover books I’ve ever read. I enjoyed every single second of this book. I had forgotten just how much of a Katie Ashely fan I am.
July 6, 2018
This was a good book. I really enjoy the friends to lovers trope. This is a particularly good example. Thorn and Isabel have tons of chemistry, and there are some really great scenes. I also really liked the premise of the book as well. All in all, this was an enjoyable read.
Reviewed by: Clare M.
Reviewed by: Clare M.
July 10, 2018
Looking for a fun, flirty enemies-to-lovers read? Check out Office Mate!
Isabel and Thorn are a perfect match! They're smart, sexy and snarky AF and how they move from boss/employee to frienemies-to-lovers is smooth and fun. I loved the balance between their witty banter and their swoony sexy times.
Isabel and Thorn ticked off all my boxes: Smart, well-developed, strong characters? Check. Quick moving, fun, engrossing story line? Check. Believable romantic developments with a whole lot of romance and maybe a bit of groveling? Check. Swoony, sexy moments that leave you a little breathless? Check.
This slow to simmer romance was just what I needed over the July 4th holiday! It was a perfect beach read. ~ Missy, 4 stars
Isabel and Thorn are a perfect match! They're smart, sexy and snarky AF and how they move from boss/employee to frienemies-to-lovers is smooth and fun. I loved the balance between their witty banter and their swoony sexy times.
Isabel and Thorn ticked off all my boxes: Smart, well-developed, strong characters? Check. Quick moving, fun, engrossing story line? Check. Believable romantic developments with a whole lot of romance and maybe a bit of groveling? Check. Swoony, sexy moments that leave you a little breathless? Check.
This slow to simmer romance was just what I needed over the July 4th holiday! It was a perfect beach read. ~ Missy, 4 stars
July 10, 2018
This was a fab little read - an enemies to friends to lovers romance, a real slow burn but with sexual tension you could cut with a knife!
Isabel is a small town girl and has worked hard to get to where she is, and is determined to make it in the business world, in fact she is up for a promotion to VP in the Callahan Corporation. Except her day doesn't go as planned, the VP job is given to Thorn Callahan, the son forced to give his military career for security reasons as his dad is now The President. He's not best pleased to be here to say the least. Isabel is expected to show him the ropes - she's fuming she didn't get the job and is planning to get back at Thorn in some way to show him up as incompetent. Problem is the attraction between them is palpable, he's a walking Adonis and she's beautiful, fiery and sassy - so Thorn decides to play the douchebag card to keep her away, while Isabel comes up with some delightful ways to get back at him.
The push and pull between these two is fabulous, and Isabel's ideas to get back at Thorn were really quite mean but they had me in stitches and hoping she could pull it off!!
Isabel is a real perfectionist at work, but out of work she is a loving and caring person, trying her best to help out her family and friends when needed. Thorn is angry at having to leave the military and has PTSD issues, but amazingly Isabel is the one person who sees right through him to all the stuff underneath he is trying to hide. His vulnerability is very endearing!
A fab little read, very funny and sweet with supportive loyal families make this all in all a very enjoyable read.
Isabel is a small town girl and has worked hard to get to where she is, and is determined to make it in the business world, in fact she is up for a promotion to VP in the Callahan Corporation. Except her day doesn't go as planned, the VP job is given to Thorn Callahan, the son forced to give his military career for security reasons as his dad is now The President. He's not best pleased to be here to say the least. Isabel is expected to show him the ropes - she's fuming she didn't get the job and is planning to get back at Thorn in some way to show him up as incompetent. Problem is the attraction between them is palpable, he's a walking Adonis and she's beautiful, fiery and sassy - so Thorn decides to play the douchebag card to keep her away, while Isabel comes up with some delightful ways to get back at him.
The push and pull between these two is fabulous, and Isabel's ideas to get back at Thorn were really quite mean but they had me in stitches and hoping she could pull it off!!
Isabel is a real perfectionist at work, but out of work she is a loving and caring person, trying her best to help out her family and friends when needed. Thorn is angry at having to leave the military and has PTSD issues, but amazingly Isabel is the one person who sees right through him to all the stuff underneath he is trying to hide. His vulnerability is very endearing!
A fab little read, very funny and sweet with supportive loyal families make this all in all a very enjoyable read.
July 17, 2018
I’m so glad that Ashley provides readers with chapters from both Thorn and Isabel’s point of view because if the story was told completely from Isabel’s perspective, readers’ attitude towards Thorn and the way he treats her would have been seen as reprehensible and it would have been difficult to sway readers’ feelings about him once it’s revealed that it’s all been an act on Thorn’s part to keep Isabel at a safe distance from him.
If readers were to judge Thorn and Isabel solely on their outward actions and words towards one another, neither one of them would be seen as someone with a good heart and kind soul, but because we get their internal musings, their inward struggles, and their repentant feelings when it comes to the things they’ve done to one another, it’s more than clear that these two characters are truly remarkable people - ones who deserve success but more importantly love and commitment, and because Ashley doesn’t leave Thorn and Isabel’s misdeeds from being exposed until the very end of the story, a foundation can be built - one of friendship, one of mutual respect, and one that provides an avenue for more to occur between them.
There’s great banter between Thorn and Isabel, especially when ‘Operation Asshole’ is in full effect, and it’s more than clear that Isabel can give as good as she gets. There were so many times throughout those first few weeks working together - a time in which Isabel exacted her plan of sabotage that I thought they both were going to blow their tops and expose the truth, but the push and pull between them continued, which only amped up the attraction and the desire they felt, proving that their methods of coexisting with one another were not working as well as they wish they were, making things incredibly awkward and volatile until Thorn and Isabel laid their cards on the table and raised the white flag.
Katie Ashley’s Office Mate is a highly entertaining and, at times, infuriating enemies-to-lovers romance told through both the hero and heroine’s perspective; it’s definitely a slow burn love story despite the clear attraction felt by both characters because there are a multitude of obstacles in their way to a happily ever after, partly due to their co-worker status but mostly due to the fact that Isabel feels that Thorn usurped the position of vice president of investment banking at The Callahan Corporation that by all rights should have been hers.
4.5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
If readers were to judge Thorn and Isabel solely on their outward actions and words towards one another, neither one of them would be seen as someone with a good heart and kind soul, but because we get their internal musings, their inward struggles, and their repentant feelings when it comes to the things they’ve done to one another, it’s more than clear that these two characters are truly remarkable people - ones who deserve success but more importantly love and commitment, and because Ashley doesn’t leave Thorn and Isabel’s misdeeds from being exposed until the very end of the story, a foundation can be built - one of friendship, one of mutual respect, and one that provides an avenue for more to occur between them.
There’s great banter between Thorn and Isabel, especially when ‘Operation Asshole’ is in full effect, and it’s more than clear that Isabel can give as good as she gets. There were so many times throughout those first few weeks working together - a time in which Isabel exacted her plan of sabotage that I thought they both were going to blow their tops and expose the truth, but the push and pull between them continued, which only amped up the attraction and the desire they felt, proving that their methods of coexisting with one another were not working as well as they wish they were, making things incredibly awkward and volatile until Thorn and Isabel laid their cards on the table and raised the white flag.
Katie Ashley’s Office Mate is a highly entertaining and, at times, infuriating enemies-to-lovers romance told through both the hero and heroine’s perspective; it’s definitely a slow burn love story despite the clear attraction felt by both characters because there are a multitude of obstacles in their way to a happily ever after, partly due to their co-worker status but mostly due to the fact that Isabel feels that Thorn usurped the position of vice president of investment banking at The Callahan Corporation that by all rights should have been hers.
4.5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
July 9, 2018
* A review copy was provided by the author for the Blog Tour *
~ 4 OfficeMate Stars ~
Office Mate was an enjoyable forbidden enemies to lovers story. If you are a fan of the push and pull of an office romance then this is the book for you.
Katie Ashley always gives us fun and entertaining storylines and characters that we fall in love with. This book is no different. This isn’t my favorite Katie Ashley book but I would still recommend to all readers who love a forbidden office romance. If enemies to lovers is a storyline you enjoy and the push and pull sucks you in, then read this book. I thought there was a little too much push and pull between Isabel and Thorn. This is definitely a slow burn.
Office Mate is a standalone novel that is told in Dual POV. I would say this is more of a companion novel to Running Mate. These books do not have to be read in order to fully enjoy them. We do see Barrett in this story but not a whole lot. I thought the flow of the story worked well but I did think with all the push and pull that the pace was on the slower side.
In Office Mate we follow Thorn and Isabel. Thorn is the oldest child in the Callahan family. He has dedicated his life to protecting our country in the Army. That is until he is told he has to leave the Army because his father is now the POTUS. So that brings risk to Thorn and his troops. Lost Thorn doesn’t know what to do so when his father makes him the VP at the family company he is less the. Thrilled. As for Isabel....she has worked for the Callahan Corporation for 7 years now and has worked herself to the bone to get promoted. Living and breathing her job, she is extremely upset when she learns that she didn’t get the promotion that she deserves but that it also went to Thorn because he’s family. What happens when Isabel finds out she has to train Thorn at the job she wants?? Can these two get over this hurdle?? Can they find their HEA after all the secrets come out??? Read this book to find out!!
I would recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of Katie Ashley’s work and loves an enemies to lovers story. This book was entertaining!! If you have read the Running Mate, then you don’t want to miss out on Thorn’s story.
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~ 4 OfficeMate Stars ~
Office Mate was an enjoyable forbidden enemies to lovers story. If you are a fan of the push and pull of an office romance then this is the book for you.
Katie Ashley always gives us fun and entertaining storylines and characters that we fall in love with. This book is no different. This isn’t my favorite Katie Ashley book but I would still recommend to all readers who love a forbidden office romance. If enemies to lovers is a storyline you enjoy and the push and pull sucks you in, then read this book. I thought there was a little too much push and pull between Isabel and Thorn. This is definitely a slow burn.
Office Mate is a standalone novel that is told in Dual POV. I would say this is more of a companion novel to Running Mate. These books do not have to be read in order to fully enjoy them. We do see Barrett in this story but not a whole lot. I thought the flow of the story worked well but I did think with all the push and pull that the pace was on the slower side.
In Office Mate we follow Thorn and Isabel. Thorn is the oldest child in the Callahan family. He has dedicated his life to protecting our country in the Army. That is until he is told he has to leave the Army because his father is now the POTUS. So that brings risk to Thorn and his troops. Lost Thorn doesn’t know what to do so when his father makes him the VP at the family company he is less the. Thrilled. As for Isabel....she has worked for the Callahan Corporation for 7 years now and has worked herself to the bone to get promoted. Living and breathing her job, she is extremely upset when she learns that she didn’t get the promotion that she deserves but that it also went to Thorn because he’s family. What happens when Isabel finds out she has to train Thorn at the job she wants?? Can these two get over this hurdle?? Can they find their HEA after all the secrets come out??? Read this book to find out!!
I would recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of Katie Ashley’s work and loves an enemies to lovers story. This book was entertaining!! If you have read the Running Mate, then you don’t want to miss out on Thorn’s story.
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July 8, 2018
Thorn was forced to give up his military uniform and his regimen to suit up in expensive clothes, and have his place inside the office of his family's business. Because of the imminent danger since his father's election - he had no choice but to grudgingly follow what his family wants for him. He expected to be bored and out of his wits - but then there was Isabel. The gorgeous brunette who likes to keep him in his place and reminds him constantly that he wasn't right for the job, not that he needs constant reminding.
Isabel worked her way to the top - but when her supposedly promotion was lost over nepotism, it devastated her. It didn't help that the one who stole her promotion is just jaw-dropping handsome, and the son of the president of the country. She also has to help the transition! But she has different ideas though...
Officemate is a enemy-to-lovers romance. But you can already feel the chemistry between the two, since their interesting first meeting down to the very page where they finally made THAT move, and I think it was past 50% (trust me though, it was so worth it!). I love Isabel, she was easy to love. Generous heart, beautiful, sexy and intelligent. The whole package. She might have done something, but she owned up to her mistakes, and tries to make up for it. Her gesture was just pure love.
I love Thorn's friendship with Ty, and his relationship with Barrett - these three gave me all the laugh this weekend. Ty and Barrett teaming up with him was just LOL. They were very supportive of him - but of course, they just love to tease him with just about anything!
Officemate by Katie Ashley is the perfect read! OfficeMate will make you swoon, laugh, and fall in love. It was just a slow-burn romance (as Thorn would have put it) - the anticipation was so worth the wait! I finished this in one sitting, unable to put down the book. I have everything coming by the end of it.
ARC given for the blog tour
Isabel worked her way to the top - but when her supposedly promotion was lost over nepotism, it devastated her. It didn't help that the one who stole her promotion is just jaw-dropping handsome, and the son of the president of the country. She also has to help the transition! But she has different ideas though...
Officemate is a enemy-to-lovers romance. But you can already feel the chemistry between the two, since their interesting first meeting down to the very page where they finally made THAT move, and I think it was past 50% (trust me though, it was so worth it!). I love Isabel, she was easy to love. Generous heart, beautiful, sexy and intelligent. The whole package. She might have done something, but she owned up to her mistakes, and tries to make up for it. Her gesture was just pure love.
I love Thorn's friendship with Ty, and his relationship with Barrett - these three gave me all the laugh this weekend. Ty and Barrett teaming up with him was just LOL. They were very supportive of him - but of course, they just love to tease him with just about anything!
Officemate by Katie Ashley is the perfect read! OfficeMate will make you swoon, laugh, and fall in love. It was just a slow-burn romance (as Thorn would have put it) - the anticipation was so worth the wait! I finished this in one sitting, unable to put down the book. I have everything coming by the end of it.
ARC given for the blog tour
July 10, 2018
Thorn Callahan never wanted to follow in the family business. As long as he could remember, the Army has been his dream. But now that his father is the President of the United States, he can’t serve in the way always dreamed.
Isabel Flannery has been working at the Callahan Corporation. She has almost met her goal of reaching VP, and has been assured when a position opens it is hers. What she didn’t anticipate was Thorn arriving just before the position was officially offered to her, and snatching it up without putting in the work.
These two are oil and water and this book is a true enemies to lovers. From the very beginning, there is animosity between them. Anger and resentment makes for tense days, especially as Thorn tamps down his growing attraction for Isabel and she plans ways to make it difficult for Thorn to complete his job. I struggled a bit with the beginning of the book. Some of Isabel’s pranks took it further than I was comfortable with. But I am glad I kept reading because the second half of the book made up for my discomfort early on.
Beyond my initial struggles though, I loved these characters and their story arc. There is so much building tension between them, and their working relationship was fun to watch develop. They really do transition from strangers to enemies to lovers in an scheming, redemptive, natural way. The story head in directions I wouldn’t have guessed from the beginning and pulled me back into the characters and their struggles.
The tension between them is cut with some fun intervention from Barrett, Addison, and particularly Ty. There is another addition, courtesy of Isabel trying redeem herself, who adds another fun aspect to the story.
This was a fun enemies to friends to lovers story with workplace competition and political/media drama added in. I always know Katie Ashley’s stories are going to keep me entertained and this was no exception!
Isabel Flannery has been working at the Callahan Corporation. She has almost met her goal of reaching VP, and has been assured when a position opens it is hers. What she didn’t anticipate was Thorn arriving just before the position was officially offered to her, and snatching it up without putting in the work.
These two are oil and water and this book is a true enemies to lovers. From the very beginning, there is animosity between them. Anger and resentment makes for tense days, especially as Thorn tamps down his growing attraction for Isabel and she plans ways to make it difficult for Thorn to complete his job. I struggled a bit with the beginning of the book. Some of Isabel’s pranks took it further than I was comfortable with. But I am glad I kept reading because the second half of the book made up for my discomfort early on.
Beyond my initial struggles though, I loved these characters and their story arc. There is so much building tension between them, and their working relationship was fun to watch develop. They really do transition from strangers to enemies to lovers in an scheming, redemptive, natural way. The story head in directions I wouldn’t have guessed from the beginning and pulled me back into the characters and their struggles.
The tension between them is cut with some fun intervention from Barrett, Addison, and particularly Ty. There is another addition, courtesy of Isabel trying redeem herself, who adds another fun aspect to the story.
This was a fun enemies to friends to lovers story with workplace competition and political/media drama added in. I always know Katie Ashley’s stories are going to keep me entertained and this was no exception!
July 11, 2018
Katie Ashley has written the long awaited second book in this series! It was incredible and truly a page turner! I loved the quirky banter and romantic innuendos. She wrote it in a dual POV, which I believe helps tell their story, understanding both sides.
Isabel is an independent, hard working woman. She is up for a promotion in her department. Isabel is all work and very little play. She loves her job and being able to succeed at it. She is a huge ball buster, but she also has an incredibly huge heart, especially when it comes to the ones she loves.
Thorn is recently back stateside and trying to adjust to being a civilian. Being the son of sitting President, he had no choice but to accept a job at his family’s company. Thorn has some had a rough time with some PTSD. He is known for being a kind hearted military man and volunteering his time and money to help out soldiers and their families.
Isabel is expecting to get a promotion, when a wrench is thrown in her plans. His name is Thorn and he was given the job. To say Isabel was devastated, is putting it mildly. Thorn is instantly drawn to her, but her feelings are overrun by the fact she has to groom him for the job. After spending time together, they grown closer and closer. Thorn takes it upon himself to pour his heart out to her.
Can Isabel accept the life that comes with being with Thorn? Will Thorn be able to prove to Isabel that none of that matters? Do they take a chance on love or will job success win in the end?
I absolutely loved this book! I couldn’t put it down, I just had to know what was going to happen to Isabel and Thorn. I recommend reading the Running Mate prior to understand Thorn’s character a little better. This book deserves more than 5 ice cream cones! Great job Katie!
July 9, 2018
This review is for an ARC and is my unbiased, honest opinion.
This office romance featured a slow burn romance between Thorn and Isabel. Thorn was a retired Army veteran who unknowingly took Isabel's position at his family's investment banking corporation. This set off a major feud between Isabel and Thorn. Isabel was quite childish in how she handled the situation in my opinion. Granted she deserved the promotion and more than earned the position, however she had no control over Thorn getting the job over her. Her solution was to try and make him look bad. Isabel's antics really gave me a bad impression of her that I never quite got over. She came across very immature which didn't go with the hard working employee impression that we first saw.
Thorn was someone that I was really drawn to throughout the book. The fact that he was in the military and fought for his country gave him some major brownie points. He also didn't let the status of his father's employment go to his head. Thorn was this down to earth guy struggling to find his way outside the military. I loved how old fashioned he was when it came to dating. Thorn didn't want to just hook up, he wanted the relationship too. I also loved his brother's cameos. I really want to go back and read Barrett's story in Running Mate.
While I wasn't a huge fan of Isabel, I still enjoyed the story overall. I also adored all the side characters. I think Ty deserves his own happily ever after!! Hopefully he will get a book too *fingers crossed*. I'm excited to read more books from this author as I really enjoyed the writing in this one.
This office romance featured a slow burn romance between Thorn and Isabel. Thorn was a retired Army veteran who unknowingly took Isabel's position at his family's investment banking corporation. This set off a major feud between Isabel and Thorn. Isabel was quite childish in how she handled the situation in my opinion. Granted she deserved the promotion and more than earned the position, however she had no control over Thorn getting the job over her. Her solution was to try and make him look bad. Isabel's antics really gave me a bad impression of her that I never quite got over. She came across very immature which didn't go with the hard working employee impression that we first saw.
Thorn was someone that I was really drawn to throughout the book. The fact that he was in the military and fought for his country gave him some major brownie points. He also didn't let the status of his father's employment go to his head. Thorn was this down to earth guy struggling to find his way outside the military. I loved how old fashioned he was when it came to dating. Thorn didn't want to just hook up, he wanted the relationship too. I also loved his brother's cameos. I really want to go back and read Barrett's story in Running Mate.
While I wasn't a huge fan of Isabel, I still enjoyed the story overall. I also adored all the side characters. I think Ty deserves his own happily ever after!! Hopefully he will get a book too *fingers crossed*. I'm excited to read more books from this author as I really enjoyed the writing in this one.
July 10, 2018
-Cassie, 4.5 stars
Office Mate is the second book about the Callahan family. You do not need to read Running Mate first, but I highly recommend it! This has the enemies with a slow burn vibe to it, and if that is your genre then this is the book for you.
I loved everything about Isabel and Thorn. Isabel is a strong, independent and take charge kind of lady. I loved that she was unapologetic about how she was and would not change for anyone. She was ambitious and worked for everything she had. And Thorn was swoon worthy, but he was so much more than his good looks. He had a heart that was pure and genuine and he was always willing to help someone out. Unfortunately, he and Isabel meet under not great circumstances and it takes a while for her to see these characteristics about him.
Isabel and Thorn’s first meeting is not ideal. The sparks are definitely flying, but they might not be the right kind of sparks. Then, to make matters worse, they soon find out that Thorn has taken the promotion that was all but promised to Isabel. To say they had a rocky start would be putting it mildly. And things just go from bad to worse when Isabel decides to sabotage Thorn to get him moved to a different department and Thorn decides to be an a**hole to Isabel to fight his attraction to her. It all comes to a head and they form a friendship and their feelings start to grow from there. I love how Thorn would not let Isabel get in the way of their happily ever after.
I am loving Katie Ashley’s books. They are always entertaining and I never want to put them down because I need to know what is going to happen next! This is a must read book.
Office Mate is the second book about the Callahan family. You do not need to read Running Mate first, but I highly recommend it! This has the enemies with a slow burn vibe to it, and if that is your genre then this is the book for you.
I loved everything about Isabel and Thorn. Isabel is a strong, independent and take charge kind of lady. I loved that she was unapologetic about how she was and would not change for anyone. She was ambitious and worked for everything she had. And Thorn was swoon worthy, but he was so much more than his good looks. He had a heart that was pure and genuine and he was always willing to help someone out. Unfortunately, he and Isabel meet under not great circumstances and it takes a while for her to see these characteristics about him.
Isabel and Thorn’s first meeting is not ideal. The sparks are definitely flying, but they might not be the right kind of sparks. Then, to make matters worse, they soon find out that Thorn has taken the promotion that was all but promised to Isabel. To say they had a rocky start would be putting it mildly. And things just go from bad to worse when Isabel decides to sabotage Thorn to get him moved to a different department and Thorn decides to be an a**hole to Isabel to fight his attraction to her. It all comes to a head and they form a friendship and their feelings start to grow from there. I love how Thorn would not let Isabel get in the way of their happily ever after.
I am loving Katie Ashley’s books. They are always entertaining and I never want to put them down because I need to know what is going to happen next! This is a must read book.
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